Margate Engineering was started in 1958 in a small shop in Margate's Bank street by Don Cooper. Don, nicknamed "The Burglar Guard King," was the first producer of the very popular standard sized burglar guards for wooden windows.

In the late 1960's Margate Engineering moved to its present site in Manaba Beach, and in 1974, the firm was purchased by the Howard-Tripp family, Bob, Joan, and Geoff. Because of Bob's willingness to tackle virtually any engineering or manufacturing task, Margate Engineering was soon very much in demand for his expertise and quality workmanship. Bob's son, Geoff started specialising in wrought iron fabrications and soon became the man to call for anything from Spanish style burglar guards to balustrades. Later, Geoff's brother Darryl joined Margate Engineering, and, as manager of the fencing division, erected many a fence you see as you travel the South Coast.

Sadly, Bob passed away in 1988, but left a family that had become well-established in the local engineering industry–able to continue where he left off. In 1987 the firm had built new premises, but retained the original building (pictured left) for offices, shop and stores. Today, Geoff, Darryl and their staff are able to offer their customers decades of experience in the engineering and security products fields.

"I built my home in 1976. Margate Engineering built the first balustrade on the front part of the house during that time. Just last year I contacted them again to do the balustrade for the stairs which finished the look off perfectly. I don't only use them for my personal use but for our business as well. We manage 9 sectional title unites and Margate Engineering are top of mind for all the garage doors, automated gates and security gates we need at these complexes. I trust Margate Engineering because they are a family run business, just like us."

Jurie Snyman from Susal Construction in Uvongo

"Since opening in 1984 we have used Margate Engineering. We have, over the years tried other structural companies but none give you the quality and reliable service that Geoff and his family do. They have done balustrades, sign posts, stair cases, warehouses, workshops, automated garage doors as well as the hangars at the Margate Airport. If anyone needs anything steel related, Margate Engineering are the ones to call."

Mrs Zerina Khan, Umtentweni

"For the past 40 years, my husband and I have had a long-standing relationship with Margate Engineering. The company did the galvanised balustrade in my previous home back when Bob Howard-Tripp was still around in 1975. Since we've moved, we've called on them for all our security needs, from roll-up security doors, Xpanda gates to stainless steel balustrades. Their stability and credibility on the South Coast is well earned. I believe you have to pay for quality service and that is what you get from Geoff and his family."

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Steel constructionand fabrications

Steel construction
and fabrications

Margate Engineering specialises in industrial steel production for major commercial projects, such as steel framework for a large automobile dealership.